Binds to CNTF. The alpha subunit provides the receptor specificity. Receptor for heterodimeric neurotropic cytokine composed of CLCF1/CLC and CRLF1/CLF-1 (PubMed:26858303). Acts as a receptor for the neuroprotective peptide humanin as part of a complex with IL6ST/GP130 and IL27RA/WSX1 (PubMed:19386761).